Olivia Hillier rejoins Maddocks as partner
Olivia Hillier has rejoined Maddocks as a partner specializing in employment, safety, and people matters. With a strong background in employment law, Olivia has dealt with both contentious and non-contentious issues, focusing on discrimination, corporate/M&A transactions, industrial relations, and workplace health and safety. She has also handled investigations and remuneration and benefits law with a high level of expertise.
David Newman, the CEO of Maddocks, expressed his excitement over Olivia’s return, stating that her appointment would enhance the firm’s dedication to employment and WHS law. Her wealth of knowledge and experience in this rapidly evolving area of law is set to be a valuable asset to clients seeking legal assistance in these fields.
Having garnered over a decade of experience at prominent national firms, Olivia also ventured in-house as part of Commonwealth Bank’s legal team, further diversifying her legal background. Bruce Heddle, Sydney’s employment head, praised Olivia’s return, recognizing her as a valuable addition to the team and a source of rich expertise for clients from various industries.
In her new role at Maddocks’ Sydney office, Olivia is expected to deliver top-notch legal services, drawing from her extensive professional background and profound understanding of employment and WHS matters. Her arrival is seen as a significant move that will enhance the firm’s offerings across all sectors and strengthen its foothold in the legal landscape.
Maddocks has been actively involved in high-profile transactions, most notably assisting National Pies Pty Ltd’s owners in divesting the Tasmanian Bakeries business to Patties Foods Pty Ltd in a deal that concluded in late 2024. Corporate partner Ron Smooker led the transaction, with support from special counsel Jacqui Picone and associate Oliver Wahlstrom, showcasing Maddocks’ expertise in managing complex corporate transactions.
Furthermore, Maddocks’ legal team advised aerospace technology manufacturer Quickstep Holdings Limited on a scheme of arrangement with ASDAM Operations Pty Ltd. Shareholders of Quickstep are expected to receive $0.575 per share under the scheme, subject to shareholder and court approval. The proposed deal is slated for a shareholder vote in the first half of the year and highlights Maddocks’ involvement in significant corporate matters.
Olivia Hillier’s return to Maddocks signifies a valuable addition to the firm’s employment, safety, and people practice, further solidifying its position as a leading legal service provider in these specialized areas. With her extensive experience and expertise, Olivia is poised to make a meaningful impact on clients seeking legal counsel on employment-related issues and contribute to Maddocks’ strong track record in delivering top-tier legal services.
